All who are selected to participate in CFR’s Blavatnik Internship Program and Robina Franklin Williams Internship Program receive training in the field of foreign policy and international affairs as well as skills training in writing, research, program planning, and much more.

The intern will have the opportunity to conduct research on current foreign policy topics, improve their research and editing skills in a team-based environment. The intern will broaden their knowledge on contemporary Middle Eastern issues as well as U.S. foreign policy, and learn about the functions of a think tank and the relationship between policy experts and policy makers. The internship is meant to bolster the intern's confidence in their own research and in their understanding of Middle Eastern politics by emphasizing critical thinking as well as accurate, timely produced, well-written work.

CFR internships are paid, require a 14 - 18 hour commitment, and are filled on a rolling basis.

• Conduct research as requested by the research associate and/or fellow on a variety of topics.
• Assist with writing and editing content, including research memos and briefs, blog posts, book chapters, and other publications, as needed.
• Assist in logistical support for meetings, including but not limited to preparing distribution materials, helping with guest check-in, and guiding visitors during roundtables and other departmental events, under the supervisor’s direct supervision.
• Assist with the social media presence and marketing strategy for the department, including drafting tweets and brainstorming outreach ideas, as needed.
• Attend relevant meetings and take notes to be shared with the research associate.
• Track daily news reports that are relevant for the department.
• Assist with statistical analysis of publication metrics.

• Undergraduate student with a concentration in Middle East Studies, International Relations, History, or a related major
• Relevant internships or experience as a research assistant or editor preferred
• Strong research, writing, and editing skills
• Experience in the region preferred
• Experience with long-term research projects preferred
• Strong computer skills with word and excel
• Professional proficiency in Arabic or Turkish desired, but not required

Founded in 1921, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is a leading nonprofit membership organization, research center, and publisher, with headquarters in New York, an office in Washington, DC, and programs nationwide. It is dedicated to increasing America's understanding of the world and contributing ideas to U.S. foreign policy. CFR's 5,000+ members are leaders in international affairs and foreign policy. CFR also publishes Foreign Affairs, the preeminent magazine on global issues, and provides up-to-date information about the world and U.S. foreign policy on its award-winning website, CFR.org.

CFR’s Internship Program is made possible through the generous support of the Blavatnik Family Foundation, the Robina Foundation, CFR members, and the family and friends of Franklin Williams.

The Council on Foreign Relations is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Quality, diversity, and balance are the key objectives sought by the Council on Foreign Relations in the composition of its workforce.